The premiere is expected to reach 20 million viewers when timeshift viewings are included.

AMC President Charlie Collier said: "Sincere thanks to the fans, who have welcomed The Walking Dead back for its fourth season with the highest-rated episode in the show's history.

"We could not be more proud of this show and everyone on both sides of the camera who work so hard to give life to this story of character, leadership and survival.

"It starts with series creator, writer and executive producer Robert Kirkman, show runner and executive producer Scott Gimple and the director of last night's episode (and the man behind the make-up) executive producer Greg Nicotero, their fellow executive producers and an extraordinary cast and crew who are giving their all every day.